Can Bronchitis Be Prevented?

The most important step to reduce the risk of developing bronchitis, acute or chronic, is to quit smoking or not start smoking in the first place.

"Once you've lost lung function, you can't get it back,” says Michael G. Simoff, MD, a pulmonary specialist at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. “But when you stop smoking, your bronchitis symptoms will improve. You'll do better all around."

Other preventive measures include:

Reduce exposure to lung irritants, such as secondhand smoke and substances with strong fumes. “A simple mask from a pharmacy or hardware store can protect you when you're in situations where you're exposed to dust, fumes, or other irritants in the air,” says Dr. Simoff.

Wash your hands frequently to limit exposure to germs and bacteria.

Get the annual flu shot and a pneumonia vaccine.

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